Repotting a Janet Craig Plant

A new pot and good soil ensures a successful Janet Craig repotting.

Dracaena fragrans 'Janet Craig,' also called the corn plant, grows as a lush indoor potted plant but can tolerate summer forays to an outdoor deck or patio when the temperatures are warm. The plant produces an abundance of glossy green tropical foliage that adds color to the home and it thrives as a potted houseplant. Janet Craig plants can grow several feet high and they require periodic repotting so they don't outgrow their container. Moving the plant into a larger pot every three to four years ensures the growing roots have the necessary space to thrive.

Pot and Soil

The new pot should have a diameter 2 inches greater than the previous pot and with a depth equal to or slightly deeper than the old pot. Only use pots that have bottom drainage holes, otherwise moisture can collect in the bottom of the pot and cause root rot. Any well-drained potting mix formulated for tropical houseplants works well, but selecting a soil similar to the type currently in the pot minimizes shock to the plant and allows it to establish more quickly in its new home.

Pot Removal

Smaller plants usually lift easily from the old pot. You can place your hand over the top of the soil and turn the pot upside down to help dislodge the roots. Larger Janet Craig plants may not lift out as easily. Turning the pot on its side and loosening the soil between the roots and pot with a straight garden trowel makes it easier to slide it out. Avoid breaking roots or stems when removing the old pot by working slowly and carefully.

Pruning

Before repotting the plant may require some light pruning. Removal of the dead stalks, when applicable, improves the appearance of the Janet Craig plant and minimizes the chances for disease. Dead stalks feel brittle and separate easily from the root ball when you pull on them. If the stalks resist removal, cut them off at the base with a clean knife. Dead or rotting roots also require pruning. Inspect the root ball for dead or damaged roots. Cut off dead dry roots or those that are overly soft and appear rotted. If any large roots are encircling the entire root ball, slice through them with a clean knife.

Repotting Method

The Janet Craig plant requires planting in the new pot so that the roots are at the same soil depth as the old pot. Generally, leaving a 2-inch space between the top of the root ball and the plant room supplies the necessary space for watering. Depending on the depth of the new pot, you may need to add some soil beneath the root ball to elevate the plant properly. After filling in the pot with soil, water it well to settle the soil. You can add more soil if the level drops after irrigation. Plants may wilt slightly after repotting. With proper sunlight and care they generally bounce back within two weeks.

About the Author

Jenny Harrington has been a freelance writer since 2006. Her published articles have appeared in various print and online publications. Previously, she owned her own business, selling handmade items online, wholesale and at crafts fairs. Harrington's specialties include small business information, crafting, decorating and gardening.